"And no improvement yet?"
"I do not know. Mother thinks a little," said Dolly, faltering. This speaking to eyes and ears of sympathy, after so long an interval, rather upset her; her lips trembled, tears came, she was upon the point of breaking down; she struggled for self-command, but her lips trembled more and more.
"I have come in good time," said her visitor.
"It is pleasant to see somebody, to be able to speak to somebody, that is so good as to care," said Dolly, brushing her hand over her eyes swiftly.
"You are worn out," said the other gently. "I am not going to be simply somebody to speak to. Miss Copley, I am a countryman, and a sort of a friend, you know. You will let me take the watch to-night."
"You!" said Dolly, starting. "Oh no!"
"I beg your pardon. You ought to say 'Oh yes.' I have had experience. I think you may trust me."
"Oh, I cannot. We have no right to let you do so."
"You have a right to make any use of me you can; for I place myself at your disposal."
"You are very kind, Mr. Shubrick!"